Right now, we’re experiencing an unprecedented experience together as we navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic. Although many of us share feelings of uncertainty, we can find proactive ways to minimize our exposure and to be encouraged by the discoveries that are being made every day. We can find comfort in the many proven strategies to combat the virus together.

One fact researchers do know is that certain populations appear to be at higher risk when exposed to the virus, especially seniors living in long-term facilities. It’s important that these facilities follow stringent safety measures to reduce the risks of exposure to vulnerable residents as much as possible.

Rehab Select’s Approach

The staff at Rehab Select places the highest priority on the health and wellbeing of you and your loved ones. While we have strict cautionary policies in place, such as visitor restrictions and restricted visitation protocols, we want you to know that we’re surrounding your loved ones with support and compassion.

We’re following all local and federal mandates, and we’re also trying to find creative ways to enrich our residents’ experiences while they’re in restricted visitation. You can rest assured knowing their needs are being met during this time.

Who Does COVID-19 Exposure Put at Risk?

Research shows men and women over 65 and anyone with pre-existing health conditions are at the highest risk for serious illness from the coronavirus. Any condition that compromises the immune system also puts adults and children at risk for complications.

The risk of exposure and spread seems to be amplified by the number of other people one comes in contact with on a daily basis. In an inpatient rehabilitation facility, in particular, the number of visitors, staff, and residents in close proximity creates unique challenges, especially without proper precautions.

This is why strategies like “social distancing” and “sheltering in place” are so imperative. The less exposure we all have to the germs that cause the virus, the more easily we can minimize the spread.

The Dangers of the Coronavirus

Early reports about the virus seemed to erroneously indicate that COVID-19 was no worse than the flu.

This misconstrued understanding of the virus has two major pitfalls: one being research indicates that the virus may have over a 20 times higher death rate (3.5%) than the flu (0.1%). The second problem is that this undermines the fact that the common flu can also be a major risk for people over 65.

Considering those dangers and the lack of current treatment or vaccinations available for the virus, you can see how the illness can pose a major threat to people everywhere, but to seniors in particular.

Current State and Federal Mandates in Alabama

The seriousness of this pandemic has caused many local and federal organizations to issue isolation orders for its citizens. These efforts are meant to protect residents, minimize the spread of the virus, and prevent detrimental overwhelm upon our healthcare system.

The health and safety of residents is the top priority of Rehab Select. That being said, we are also taking steps to provide social support and help manage the stress and boredom associated with restricted visitation.

What Does This Mean for You and Your Loved One?

Due to the severity of this pandemic, it’s important to stay home and find other means of connecting with your loved ones. Although the coronavirus has taken us into uncharted territory that seems to change by the hour, the health of you and your family is the top priority, and many people have found creative ways to adapt.

One way to connect with a loved one when you can’t be there physically is to set up video chats and messages. Your inpatient facility may be able to help you set up video conferencing to stay in contact with your family members.

See How Rehab Select Facilities Are Adapting to Visitation Restrictions

Rehab Select Shelby Ridge Window Visits

The amazing people of the Alabaster Community came out to window visit residents at Rehab Select Shelby Ridge. The residents and staff are also having fun with different art and crafts, a little throwback to the 70’s, and dancing in the hallways!